CELPIP vs IELTS for Express Entry
Updated October 2026. Both tests are accepted by IRCC. Here's how they compare, so you can pick the one that suits you.
Both are accepted, so pick the one you'll score higher on
For Express Entry, IRCC accepts CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training and PTE Core for English. IRCC does not accept IELTS Academic, CELPIP-General LS or the IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry. Both tests convert to the same CLB levels, so a CLB 9 counts the same either way.
Official score equivalents
| CLB | CELPIP (each skill) | IELTS Listening | IELTS Reading | IELTS Writing | IELTS Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 7.5 |
| 9 | 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 8 | 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 7 | 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Minimum scores from IRCC's equivalency chart. Always check the official chart before you apply.
Notice that CELPIP is one-to-one: CELPIP 9 is CLB 9. With IELTS, the band you need is different for each skill. CLB 9 needs 8.0 in Listening but 7.0 in Reading.
Key differences
- Delivery: CELPIP is fully on a computer in one sitting of about three hours. Speaking is recorded on the computer, not done face-to-face with an examiner.
- Accent and content: CELPIP uses Canadian English and everyday Canadian situations, such as workplaces, neighbours and community life.
- Writing: CELPIP has an email (Task 1) and a survey response (Task 2). IELTS General has a letter and an essay.
- Results: CELPIP scores usually come in 2–4 business days.
- Where you can test: CELPIP centres are mostly in Canada, with some abroad. IELTS has wider global coverage, so check which test is near you.
How to decide
- If you type comfortably and prefer speaking to a microphone over an interviewer, CELPIP often feels easier.
- If you're used to British or international English, or there's no CELPIP centre near you, IELTS may suit you better.
- Try a timed practice test of each and compare your estimated CLB.
See how you'd score on CELPIP
Take a free practice test in Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking. Each one gives you an estimated CELPIP level, which is the same as your CLB. When you're ready, a full timed mock exam shows where you stand across all four skills.
Sources
- IRCC: Express Entry language test results
- IRCC: CLB equivalency tables for CELPIP and IELTS
- CELPIP: Test overview
CLB Target is independent and not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises or IELTS. This guide is not immigration advice.